Tag: gifts

  • Great Gifts for RV Newbies Who Think They Have Everything

    Great Gifts for RV Newbies Who Think They Have Everything

    Embarking on the RV lifestyle is an exhilarating leap into a world of freedom, adventure, and the open road. For those just beginning this journey, thoughtful gifts make all the difference – helping transform a basic rig into a cozy home-on-wheels and ensuring that even first-time RVers feel ready for whatever the road throws at them. These handpicked gifts focus on convenience, comfort, and practicality, making every mile smoother and every pit stop more enjoyable.

    With these five items, you’ll find perfect options for any RV. And, unlike the fourth s’mores kit that ends up stashed in the back, these gifts are guaranteed to be used and appreciated, so whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just because, here are five affordable, must-have gifts for the RV newbie in your life.

    Compact Multi-Tool

    When you’re on the road, minor repairs can crop up at any time – maybe it’s a loose screw on a cabinet, a wobbly table leg, or even a stubborn jar lid. Enter the Leatherman Wingman Multi-Tool, a versatile, compact powerhouse designed to tackle all those little fixes that RVers might encounter.

    Features

    • 14 Tools in One: The Leatherman Wingman offers an impressive array of 14 tools in one compact package, including pliers, wire cutters, scissors, screwdrivers, and a bottle opener. This makes it a reliable companion for RVers, covering everything from quick adjustments to light repairs.
    • Lightweight and Compact: With its lightweight design, this multi-tool is easy to carry around or stash in a small RV drawer. At just 7 ounces, it’s built to fit into RV life, where space is premium.
    • Built to Last: Made from high-quality stainless steel, the Wingman is crafted to handle outdoor environments and regular use, making it a durable, long-lasting addition to an RVer’s tool kit.

    Why RVers Will Love It

    This multi-tool is a perfect gift for any “weekend warrior” or full-timer. RVers often find themselves adjusting, tightening, or even popping a bottle cap on the go, and the Wingman Multi-Tool makes it easy. It’s reliable for tackling daily tasks and compact enough not to clutter up limited storage. Imagine gifting a tool that covers so many needs – saving them from bringing a whole toolbox on board!

    Portable Coffee Maker

    For coffee-loving RVers, a good cup of coffee is often the perfect way to start the day, whether parked in a beautiful forest clearing or a quiet roadside. The AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press is an ideal gift for any newbie who wants to enjoy quality coffee without the fuss or bulk of a traditional coffee maker.

    Features

    • Compact and Lightweight: Specifically designed for travel, the AeroPress Go is compact and easy to pack, making it ideal for RV kitchens where space is at a premium.
    • Quick Setup and Brew Time: With its simple design, the AeroPress Go allows RVers to brew a fresh cup in just a few minutes. Just add coffee, pour hot water, press, and enjoy.
    • Easy Cleanup: Cleaning up can be a chore, especially when water is limited. The AeroPress Go makes cleanup easy, a huge plus for RVers who prioritize simplicity and efficiency.

    Why RVers Will Love It

    This coffee press is perfect for RVers who can’t start the day without a solid cup of coffee, even when moving. With the AeroPress Go, RV newbies can enjoy high-quality coffee from the comfort of their rig, whether brewing at a quiet campsite or on a quick roadside stop. Plus, it’s easy to store and clean, making it a practical choice for life on the road.

    Collapsible Kitchen Set

    Space in an RV kitchen is always at a premium, and when you’re cooking on the road, it’s essential to have tools that can easily tuck away without sacrificing function. The Thin Bins collapsible container set provides an excellent space-saving solution for RV kitchens, allowing new RVers to mix, serve, and store without the bulk of traditional kitchenware.

    Features

    • Different Sizes: These containers are available in sets of various shapes and sizes, making it versatile for mixing, serving, or storing food.
    • Food-Safe Silicone: Made from BPA-free silicone, these bowls are heat-resistant and dishwasher-safe, ensuring they’re safe for all kinds of food prep and easy to clean.
    • Collapsible Design: Each bowl collapses to a fraction of its size, making storage a breeze – perfect for RV kitchens with limited cabinet space.

    Why RVers Will Love It

    The Thin Bins collapsible container set is a thoughtful gift for anyone looking to bring home kitchen comforts into their RV lifestyle. These bowls are incredibly versatile, doubling as storage containers and saving precious space for the essentials. They’re perfect for anyone who loves to cook on the go, whether preparing a campsite feast or packing a quick lunch before hitting the road.

    Collapsible LED Lantern

    Light is essential when setting up camp after dark, looking for something in a storage bay, or enjoying an evening outside. The Vont LED Camping Lantern is a must-have item for RVers, providing bright, reliable light in a compact, easy-to-pack design.

    Features

    • Lightweight and Collapsible: Designed to be packed down when not in use, this lantern is both lightweight and easy to store – ideal for RVers who need a practical, space-saving light source.
    • AA Batteries: Each lantern is powered by three normal, widely available AA batteries. No need to hunt down specialty 9V batteries or D-cells, or worry about an internal battery pack no longer holding a charge – and there’s even a compartment for a set of spare batteries in the lid so you’ll never be left in the dark.
    • Water-Resistant and Durable: Built to handle outdoor conditions, the Vont lantern is water-resistant and durable enough for camping and other outdoor adventures.

    Why RVers Will Love It

    For RVers, a good light source isn’t just a convenience; it’s a necessity. The Vont lantern is great for camp, reading by the fire, or finding gear in dark spaces. It’s reliable and compact, making it a practical gift for any RV newbie. And for those late-night campfire gatherings or impromptu s’mores sessions, it adds a cozy ambiance to their outdoor setup.

    Magnetic Spice Jars

    A well-seasoned meal can turn an ordinary stop into a memorable feast, but RV kitchens are notoriously limited in storage. The Talented Kitchen Magnetic Spice Jars offer a smart solution for storing spices without taking up valuable counter or cabinet space, making it an ideal gift for RVers who love to cook.

    Features

    • Magnetic Backing: These spice jars have a magnetic backing, allowing them to be attached to any metal surface, such as the side of a refrigerator or a metal backsplash, freeing up drawer and cabinet space.
    • Clear Lids with Shaker Holes: The clear lids make it easy to see each spice at a glance, while the shaker holes let you quickly season your dishes with a twist of the lid.
    • Compact Design: With a diameter of 2 inches each, these jars are designed to be compact yet functional, giving RVers just the right amount of spice storage without the bulk of a full spice rack.

    Why RVers Will Love It

    These spice jars are perfect for anyone who loves cooking on the go but finds their RV kitchen short on storage. Magnetic spice jars make bringing your favorite seasonings along for the ride easy, turning any meal into a tasty experience. With their sleek, space-saving design, these jars add a touch of style and organization to any RV kitchen – making them a gift that’s both practical and thoughtful.

    Thoughtful Gifts to Kickstart Every Newbie’s RV Adventure

    These five gifts are more than just helpful tools – they’re companions for the road, each adding a unique layer of comfort and convenience to the RV lifestyle. For new RVers, these items make every journey easier, from brewing a fresh cup of coffee at sunrise to prepping a meal at sunset. They’re affordable, compact, and thoughtfully designed for life on the move, providing exactly what every RVer needs to make the most of every mile.

    Whether it’s a holiday gift or a welcome present for a friend’s first big road trip, these gifts will make their RV feel a little more like home. So here’s to the open road and the adventures ahead – may every mile be memorable with the right tools, comforts, and a little help from thoughtful friends like you.

  • 5 Gifts No Full-Time RVer Can Resist

    5 Gifts No Full-Time RVer Can Resist

    For the full-time RVer, life on the road is packed with incredible views, spontaneous adventures, and unique challenges that make everyday living a bit different – and so rewarding. When it comes to gift-giving, the most thoughtful presents are the ones that simplify and enhance life on the go. With the holiday season just around the corner, we’ve curated a list of five affordable, space-saving, and adventure-ready gifts that any full-time RVer will love.

    Whether it’s a cozy campfire without the hassle or a nifty organizer to tame the clutter, each item here promises to make the road feel a bit more like home. So, if you’re shopping for an RVer who already seems to have everything, look no further. RV Trader has just the ideas.

    Warm Up With a Portable Propane Campfire Ring

    There’s nothing quite like a campfire – the crackling flames, the warmth, the perfect backdrop for stories and marshmallow roasting. For RVers, traditional wood fires can be messy, hard to maintain, and even restricted in certain areas due to fire bans. Enter the Outland Firebowl 893, a portable propane campfire ring that lets RVers enjoy an authentic fire ambiance without the hassle. It’s compact, easy to set up, and can be used even in places where open fires aren’t allowed, making it the perfect addition to any RV setup.

    RVers often love gathering outside under the stars, and this portable propane fire ring provides the warmth and atmosphere of a campfire wherever they roam. Its compact size and portability make it ideal for RVers who need to save on storage space but want to enjoy cozy nights outdoors.

    Features

    • Quick Setup and No Cleanup: No need to gather wood or clean out ashes. Just hook up the Firebowl to a propane tank, adjust the flame, and it’s ready. Cleanup is as simple as turning it off and stowing it away.
    • Adjustable Flame and Compatibility: This fire ring uses standard propane tanks, and its flame height can be adjusted so RVers can control the warmth and ambiance to fit their mood and environment.
    • Portable and Space-Saving: Weighing in at a manageable 24 pounds and measuring just 19 inches in diameter, this fire pit is easy to stow in limited RV storage.

    Why RVers Will Love It

    This fire pit offers everything an RVer would want in a portable campfire solution: it’s safe, easy to set up, and delivers all the warmth without the smoke and ash. Perfect for chilly nights, evening gatherings, or when firewood is scarce or restricted, it’s an ideal gift for those who love the outdoors. As a bonus, it’s a great excuse to enjoy gooey marshmallows and cozy up with friends without worrying about smoky clothes or cleanup.

    Healthy and Convenient Cooking With a Compact Air Fryer

    For RVers, cooking on the road can be tricky, especially regarding healthier options that don’t involve bulky appliances. The Dash Compact Air Fryer offers a brilliant solution, allowing RVers to whip up their favorite crispy, delicious meals with minimal oil. It is compact enough for small kitchens and versatile – ideal for everything from roasting veggies to making a batch of fries or chicken wings, all with a healthy twist.

    This appliance appeals to full-time RVers who want quick, easy, healthy meals without cluttering their limited counter space. With easy-to-clean parts and efficient cooking times, it’s designed for the busy, health-conscious traveler.

    Features

    • Space-Saving Design: Small yet mighty, this air fryer is perfect for tight spaces, taking up minimal counter room and storing away easily when not in use.
    • Easy to Clean and Versatile: Cleanup is a breeze with a non-stick fry basket and dishwasher-safe parts. This model can handle everything from fries to chicken to roasted vegetables.
    • Energy Efficient: Low wattage makes it ideal for RVers who rely on solar power or want to avoid using too much energy.

    Why RVers Will Love It

    The Dash Compact Air Fryer lets RVers enjoy crispy, delicious food with less grease and fewer calories – all without heating up their RV’s interior. It’s perfect for making snacks, quick meals, or experimenting with new recipes without worrying about power consumption or counter space. And for those who love a crunchy treat on the road, it’s an easy, healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.

    Set the Mood With Solar-Powered String Lights

    Nothing enhances an outdoor space quite like string lights’ soft, ambient glow. For RVers who love creating a welcoming campsite, these Luci Solar String Lights bring function and charm. Designed to be completely solar-powered, they’re perfect for the RVer who likes to boondock, stay off-grid, or add a touch of magic to the campsite without the hassle of electrical hookups. From winding them around the RV awning to draping them along a fence, these lights help full-time RVers make their outdoor space feel like home.

    The Luci Solar String Lights include a detachable power hub, making them incredibly versatile and user-friendly. They add a unique, eco-friendly twist to lighting, providing practical illumination while creating a cozy atmosphere wherever they’re set up.

    Features

    • Eco-Friendly Solar Power: These lights can be recharged via solar or USB, offering maximum flexibility for boondocking or remote camping.
    • Long Battery Life and Versatile Lighting Modes: On a full charge, the lights can last up to 40 hours and feature various lighting modes to fit any setting or mood.
    • Weather Resistant and Durable: Built to withstand the elements, these lights are perfect for outdoor use in various climates, making them a reliable lighting option for any adventure.

    Why RVers Will Love It

    For RVers, these solar-powered string lights provide a functional and decorative solution for evening gatherings or solo relaxation under the stars. Not only do they save on energy and eliminate the need for outlets, but they also enhance the ambiance, transforming any campsite into a little oasis. Whether RVers enjoy a quiet night in or host friends, these lights add that perfect charm, making the journey feel just as comfortable as home.

    Drink Safely Wherever You Roam With a Portable Water Filter

    Access to clean, safe drinking water is essential for every RVer, especially those exploring remote or unfamiliar places where water quality can vary. The LifeStraw Portable Water Filter is an ideal solution for the full-time RVer who might find themselves in areas without guaranteed safe water sources. This lightweight, easy-to-carry filter can transform nearly any water source into safe drinking water, offering peace of mind and a reliable hydration option, no matter where the road leads.

    The LifeStraw is particularly appealing to boondocks and adventurers who frequent more remote areas, as it reduces the reliance on bottled water and allows for more spontaneous travel. Not only is it practical, but it also helps RVers cut down on plastic waste, an environmental bonus that aligns with the eco-conscious nature of the RV lifestyle.

    Features

    • Compact and Lightweight Design: Weighing less than 2 ounces, the LifeStraw is easy to pack and perfect for RVers who need light travel.
    • Impressive Filter Lifespan: Each LifeStraw filter provides up to 1,000 gallons (or 4,000 liters) of safe drinking water, lasting for years with proper care.
    • High-Quality Filtration: Capable of removing 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and 99.9% of parasites, the LifeStraw ensures safe hydration from nearly any natural water source.

    Why RVers Will Love It

    For the full-time RVer, having access to clean water can often mean the difference between a good day on the road and a stressful one. The LifeStraw offers a practical, cost-effective alternative to bottled water, making it a great addition to any RV toolkit. RVers can confidently explore remote, scenic spots, knowing they have a safe and reliable way to stay hydrated. Its compact design and ease of use make it a convenient, must-have item for planned and spontaneous adventures.

    Note: The original LifeStraw does not filter chemicals, heavy metals, or viruses, such as norovirus.

    Stay Organized With a Hanging Toiletry Organizer

    Every square inch of space matters when living in an RV  –  especially in the bathroom, where clutter can quickly take over. This BAGSMART Hanging Toiletry Organizer is designed to keep toiletries organized and within reach, turning any small bathroom into an efficient and tidy space. With multiple compartments, elastic straps, and a clear layout, this organizer eliminates the need to rummage through bags or drawers, making morning routines smoother and faster.

    Ideal for anyone who values a well-organized space, this hanging organizer is sturdy enough for long-term use yet compact enough to fit in most RV bathrooms. Its water-resistant design ensures that toiletries stay dry, and its foldable structure makes it easy to store when not in use.

    Features

    • Multiple Compartments and Sturdy Build: With four zippered compartments and elastic straps to keep bottles upright, this organizer is perfect for holding various bathroom essentials securely.
    • Water-Resistant and Durable Materials: Made with high-quality, water-resistant polyester, the organizer is built to withstand the humid conditions of an RV bathroom.
    • Foldable and Compact Design: When not in use, it folds neatly, saving space. The built-in hook lets it hang from doors, shower rods, or any convenient spot.

    Why RVers Will Love It

    The BAGSMART Hanging Toiletry Organizer brings order to the RV bathroom, making it a breeze to find everything from toothbrushes to shampoo without any hassle. For RVers who prize organization, this toiletry bag simplifies daily routines and reduces clutter, making the limited bathroom space feel more spacious. As a bonus, it’s great for sanity-saving  –  keeping all essentials neatly stored, so there’s less to worry about during the morning rush or while on the go.

    Thoughtful Finds for Every Full-Time RVer

    Each of these gift ideas is carefully chosen to meet the unique needs of full-time RVers, blending practicality with a touch of adventure. From the warmth of a portable campfire to the convenience of a hanging organizer, these items are thoughtful, space-saving, and designed to make life on the road easier and more enjoyable. Best of all, they’re all affordable options under $100, making them perfect for holiday gifting or any occasion. So, whether you’re shopping for a friend, family member, or even yourself, these items will surely add comfort, functionality, and a bit of joy to the RV lifestyle.

  • Shop These Adventure-Ready Gifts for RV Kids

    Shop These Adventure-Ready Gifts for RV Kids

    Let’s just be real: RV kids are different. The world is their classroom. Mother Nature is their friend. And they collect experiences the way others collect things. Having traveled extensively in an RV full-time with two small children, I have gotten to know many other full-time families. Something I’ve noticed in all of their children is an abundance of creativity, resourcefulness, and adaptability. And the most important lesson they all learn first-hand? The world is at their fingertips. So what do you get a kid who already has it all? Well, here’s a hot take: Gifts for RV kids should help them explore the world they love.

    And yes, I’ve got a few good ideas which may come in handy right as the holiday season comes upon us. These five gifts for RV kids are full of wonder, adventure, and creativity. Which means they’ll love them.

     

    The Bug Box

    Bugs. It’s ironic that what my children are most fascinated by is what we try to avoid the most when we live on the road. This summer, near the French Broad River in Asheville, NC, we witnessed a gathering of Dobsonflies. For some, this would be a nightmarish scene from Indiana Jones come to life. (Image search it if you dare!) But for our brave and curious explorers, these creepy critters were a treasure they couldn’t keep away from.

    A bug box is an absolute must for any RV kid. All sorts of entomological wonders will find a temporary home in this box — whether it’s an arthropod with more legs than you can shake a stick at, or maybe little glowing fireflies in the summer nights.

    Just make sure they leave the bugs outside — or you might wake up to an unpleasant surprise!

     

    Audubon Field Guides

    I grew up with the rainbow colors of the National Audubon Society field guides on my shelf. These iconic books feature page after page of large color photographs of plants and animals from across the country, with brief, yet detailed descriptions to capture the imagination of my young mind. And today, my kids share that same fascination.

    On the road, RV kids will see more wildlife and natural phenomena than what people can find in a zoo or garden. Pairing those encounters with a shelf of resources will teach them that seeing an interesting thing is only the beginning.

    The original series of Audubon books can be difficult to find. For me, eBay is the most accessible method, but you can also visit a local bookstore with a used section — there will likely be at least one Audubon field guide on the shelf. Before you know it, you will have a complete collection to nurture those insatiably curious minds.

     

    Travel Watercolor Set and Postcard Paper

    This is my absolute favorite gift to give any traveling soul, child or adult. The Windsor Newton Travel Watercolor Set is particularly well thought out. The case is compact, perfect for travel; and the collapsible brush paints beautifully, is a joy to deploy, and capable of fine detail. The paints are high quality, with a lovely assortment of vibrant colors.

    As a family, our favorite activity during travel is painting the landscapes we encounter on the road. We have seen sunsets that would inspire the least artistic individual to pick up a paint brush. I can’t think of a better way to share those inspiring moments than by sending them to friends and family on these paintable post cards. These two gifts, paired together, are gifts that keep on giving.

     

    Junior Ranger Passport Book

    More than once, we have taken our family on the road full-time in our RV. And each time, the National Parks Junior Ranger Program was a cherished feature. The Junior Ranger Passport Book is a great accessory to this invaluable learning experience. With this book, RV kids can collect their destinations in a handy keepsake that can inspire future adventures.

    Living full time with kids in an RV is no easy task. The National Parks Junior Ranger program can offer your family endless avenues of exploration, familiarity in a new place, and the confidence to teach your kids on the road.

     

    Outdoor Play Tent

    One thing I like to give my kids space to do as much as possible is play freely. (Because of all the gifts for RV kids, play is really at the top of the list.) Something that they do often is mirror the world of adults around them, acting out real life situations. If they see their parents setting up their RV regularly, they will likely want to set up a little pretend home of their own.

    So while it may seem redundant, an outdoor play tent will keep them entertained for hours. Or maybe a folding RV camper play tent for them to set up while their parents are setting up the real thing!